Beware of Requests For Cashiers Checks Or Western Union Payments

Posted on September 16, 2007

Here’s the latest fraud being perpetrated on this and other travel & vacation websites. Please beware of any requests for payment by Cashiers Check or Western Union payments. Basically, don’t send money this way, it almost definitely is fraud. 

Here is what happens:

Someone in Nigeria obtains stolen credit card information. They then use these credit cards to sign-up for an advertisement here, on other websites and in newspapers.

They run unbelievable great offers for travel services and accommodations in top destinations (New York & London seem to be two hot spots).

All contact is via email to free accounts at Yahoo, HotMail, GMAIL, etc.

They tell the interested party that the service/accommodation is available (it is always available) and that it is a great deal because they had a last minute cancellation or they bought the property for cheap.

But in order to book it, you have to do it today and you have to send money by Western Union.

Excited about the accommodations or travel service, the vacationer sends the requested deposit by Western Union.

The fraudster drops by his local Nigeria Western Union office to collect several hundred dollars and laughs about the suckers.

Of course, he mysteriously drops off the planet and doesn’t respond to future emails.

I reported this to the Boston FBI office. Unfortunately they said there is little they could do since the perpetrator is outside the country. I was told to fill out an online report and they would contact me if necessary. Sadly, I’m sure the report will be filed in some sub-sub-sub-basement somewhere and ultimately lost.

So, as I said, don’t ever send cashiers checks or Western Union payments unless you personally know the party receiving the payment. RealAdventures is not liable for any monies lost or vacations ruined due to this or other fraud.

If you do encounter fraud as a result of one of our listings, please report it to us immediately. If appropriate, we will terminate that listing.

» Filed Under Spam Alerts

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